All parents and caregivers of SMA students are members of the Parents' Guild and are encouraged to be active participants. Guild parents organize activities and events throughout the year to raise funds, provide services and give parents, students and staff the opportunity to come together as a community.
Purpose of the Parents' Guild
Community Building
We aim to foster a sense of community by bringing together parents, and to promote the well-being of St. Mary's Academy by helping to further the work of the school. This purpose is carried out through the events and activities we manage below.
Financial Support
Proceeds from our events and activities serve to assist the school financially with selected projects and equipment, scholarships and bursaries.
Parents' Guild Executive
Honorary President: Michelle Klus (Interim SMA President)
President: Rachel Hall
Vice President, Communications Coordination: Kate Hanson
Vice President, Volunteer Coordination: Jason Oltrop
Treasurer: Maja Dos Santos
Secretary: Lisa Rowbotham
Committees and Convenors
Corner Store Chair: Marilyn Teixeira
Co Chair: Kim Mathew
International Day Chair: Jen Melo
Co Chair: Chukwudumebi Onyiuke
Cash Lottery: Janette Hedley
Hospitality Chair: Lisa Rowbotham
Staff Appreciation: Dana Bartley, Lisa Sigurdson
Parents' Guild Meetings
Meetings are held in our Durocher Library (enter through Alumnae Hall doors). We begin at 7 p.m. and strive to keep our meetings under 90 minutes.
- September 17, 2024 - AGM and regular meeting at 7 p.m.
- November 19, 2024 - Regular meeting at 7 p.m.
- January 28, 2025 - Regular meeting at 7 p.m.
- March 25, 2025 - Regular meeting at 7 p.m.
- May 6, 2025 -Meeting and volunteer appreciation at 7 p.m.
In addition to Guild business and activities, these meetings are a forum for parents to exchange information and updates with Michelle Klus, Interim President of St. Mary's Academy. Meetings are also an opportunity to mingle and get to know other SMA parents.
Volunteer with the Parents' Guild
By volunteering, you'll become active in a community of dedicated parents who graciously offer their time and talents. Volunteering is an opportunity to help out where needed and to connect with other parents, in turn helping us foster a strong community.
All families are asked to sign up at the start of every new school year.
Volunteer with the Parents' Guild!
Watch this video to learn more about the SMA Parents' Guild volunteering experience.
Parents' Guild Initiatives
International Day: The Guilds’ signature fundraising event. This is a fun-filled day that celebrates the multi-cultural diversity of the school through entertainment and culinary delights.
Parent Mix and Mingle: Welcome event for parents of new students.
Corner Store: Sells SMA branded merchandise and snacks.
50/50 Raffle: Held annually online. Funds raised support programs and activities for students.
Parking Team: Assist with parking during SMA events.
Hospitality Committee: Assists in hosting school events such as the Open House and the Staff Appreciation Lunch.